Located in an enchanting setting on the shores of the Lachine Canal, Il Fornetto is a perfect place to offer oneself a moment of relaxation and change of scenery without having to leave the city. Inside, the rustic-inspired though modern décor is particularly pleasant. Yet it is above all for its superb, double-level terrace looking out directly over the canal that people love this place. Open from early in spring until late in autumn, the terrace welcomes you to come and enjoy beautiful the sunsets.
Il Fornetto’s menu takes on the appearance of an encyclopaedia of Italian cuisine. The selection is impressive and includes all of the staples: pastas available as a full dish or half portion, which is great for an entrée, various antipasti and veal and the most important staple of them all, pizza baked in a real wood-burning oven. Here, it is particularly delicious, crispy and topped with the freshest ingredients. Not surprisingly, this restaurant – open since 1987 – shows no sign of slowing down.
Il Fornetto consistently delivers an excellent dining experience with friendly, attentive service, a warm and inviting atmosphere, and a menu that showcases authentic Italian flavors. The wood-fired pizzas, fresh pastas, and well-balanced dishes receive frequent praise for taste and quality, while the canal-side terrace and cozy interiors provide a memorable setting. Guests often highlight generous portions, good wine selections, and a welcoming vibe that works well for celebrations as well as casual dinners. The staff are noted for being helpful and professional, making reservations and dining smooth even when busy. This combination of dependable food, thoughtful hospitality, and a charming location keeps diners coming back time after time.
Guylaine & Jasmine were absolutely the most welcoming & competent of servers. Even though the restaurant was very busy & the terrace was full, we were served as if we were the only ones. Fish well prepared, lots of crispy veggies. Eggplant appetizer is outstanding. Tiramisu made fresh every day. Price very reasonable. One of the nicest terraces on the Island of Montreal. It in has a first class view on the Lachine Canal. We will return often.
We had an outstanding family meal at Il Fornetto. We were fortunate to have a table on the second floor in a lovely room with a fabulous view of the canal. The staff was, as has always been our experience, very friendly amd accommodating. Service was prompt & helpful in every way possible (as we were with 2 young boys). Our cocktails were perfect as was every part of our meal, from appetizers to mains. My grandsons loved their spaghetti bolognese & we all loved our calamari, salad, spaghetti puttanesca, linguini alle vongole & my veal piccata al limone were all delicious! We were too full for dessert but we will definitely try to save some room for it when we return. We have never had anything but a fantastic meal at Il Fornetto!
Lovely view & excellent service. Had a great time. Pizza & salad were delicious, the bread was cold & hard, I think they could have done better. Overall it was great & I shouldn't be having carbs anyways ☺? We will be back!
Jul 25, 2025
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I go there mostly for the view, it's next to the water & just simply beautiful.
Yes the food is very good. They serve fresh pizza which is awesome . Food is quality & affordable so I think it's a package deal !!
What a lovely restaurant, sat out on the upper terrace with a beautiful view of the water. The service was friendly & the food was absolutely delicious.
Don't say you want to share. Divide your own meals on your plates & save five dollars. Seems a bit sneaky the way they offer it, but it is stated on the menu about the charge. We also waited a long time to be served after we arrived.
Can't beat the view from the patio. Beautiful park & waterfront to enjoy. Awesome location.
Don't go to this restaurant if you like chicken. I seriously searched & couldn't find a pasta or a pizza with chicken!
The salmon pasta was incredible with a bit of Parmesan on it! The Giardino pizza was a bit bland.
Host & server were both accommodating to some unique needs our family had.
May 29, 2025
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We visited this place for Mother's Day & they accommodated us last minute for a party of 12. The service was great, food amazing, I loved the Foccacia ! & the veal scallopini.
I found the dessert to be a bit pricy.. granita for 10$. However, 5 stars for this restaurant I will definitely returning!
The view is stunning as well overlooking the lachine canal.
Il Fornetto is a great spot for Italian food with a beautiful view of the Lachine Canal. The pizza was very delicious, with a perfect crispy crust & fresh toppings. The service was friendly & professional, but the rocket salad was overpriced for what it was, not much flavor for the cost. Still, it's a solid choice for a date night or a casual meal with friends.
Our favorite place in Lachine. Very cozy place because the spot is very nice on the riverside. The food is excellent! We always make reservations on the second floor to enjoy the beautiful view .Highly recommend. Their pizza is the Best!
Has a really lux atmosphere at a bargain price point. The upstairs is really nice with a fireplace, linen tablecloths & great views on the terrace. We had the pizza which was excellent
Another great meal at Il Fornetto. Been coming here for years, not only for the food but the ambiance inside & out, with a great view of the Lachine canal. The staff are super friendly & always welcoming. Shared a large Caesar salad which was perfect for 2 people as a starter. Then enjoyed the Lasagna which is always consistent & tasty, & had the Rucola pizza which was absolutely delicious. All their pizzas are fantastic, you can't go wrong with any of them, & so many to choose from! In addition also had a Table d'hôte of Braised Short Rib with some spaghetti. The meat was so tender & succulent. This included a mista salad or minestrone soup. Sadly no room for dessert on this visit, but their tiramisu & crème brûlée are worth the extra indulgence.
Il fornetto is my go-to for Italian food in Montreal. With a beautiful view over the Lachine canal, wood stove pizza cooked in house infront of you with scrumptious pasta dishes & imported desserts. Do not skip this place!
